Wheelchair Company Makes Donation To Help Child With Cerebral Palsy

PORT READING – The parents of nine-year-old Michael Stetson will no longer have to worry about how they’re going to replace their son’s outgrown wheelchair thanks to Convaid Wheelchairs. Convaid is donating a brand new Rodeo Wheelchair to help young Michael, who sustained a brain injury at birth leaving him with Cerebral Palsy, visually impaired and with various other health issues that call for around the clock care.

The chair is going to be given to the Stetson family on Oct. 22 during the annual Halloween Bash at the Port Reading Saints Field, presented by the Port Reading Saints Pop Warner Football and Cheerleading teams.

“We were so touched by Michael’s story and the community’s involvement that we unanimously decided to donate the chair to the Stetson family,” said Marketing Manager Gina Reed.

Convaid first learned about the Stetson family from Saints Football coach Cesar Rogie, who met the family at football games where their daughter is a cheerleader. He decided to reach out to Convaid after learning that Michael’s health insurance did not cover a majority of his medical needs, which included a much needed wheelchair replacement.

“I see Michael and his family every week at practices and games, and I wanted to help them with their situation,” Rogie said. “One of the biggest needs they had was getting a new wheelchair for their son, so I wanted to help them get that, whether we would have to throw fundraisers or go around and ask for donations.”

Michael’s mother, Giovanna Stetson, is very grateful to everyone who has helped her get the Rodeo because it is the only chair she can carry and lift into the car for the numerous doctor and therapy appointments she takes her son to.

“I fell in love with the Rodeo the minute I saw it at the New York Metro Abilities Expo back in May,” Stetson said. “I love how light it is and since I don’t have an accessible vehicle, it’s a perfect fit for me and my family. Plus, Michael just loves it!”

The Halloween Bash is located at 100 Saints Boulevard in Port Reading. Tickets are $10, which includes a hayride ticket and access to all on field activities. The money raised goes to help purchase equipment for the children of the Port Reading Saints.